While the holiday season can bring fun and celebrations, it can also be the time of year that triggers difficult thoughts and emotions, possibly leading to unhealthy behaviors.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) published coping tips as part of a Holiday Toolkit to take care of ourselves if we experience holiday stress. These include:
- Take Care of your Body
- Get enough sleep
- Spend time outdoors exercising or playing sports
- Connect with Others
- If you need it, and when you feel ready, ask for help
- Join a support group or online community
- Talk honestly with people who care and who won’t judge you
- Get involved with a group, sports team, spiritual organization, or activity
- Volunteer for a cause
- Take care of your mind
- Write or draw about your feelings
- Take deep breaths if you feel anxious
- Take a break from news or social media if necessary
- Explore your interests and hobbies
- Follow a regular schedule and take breaks
- Celebrate your large or small successes
This season, show yourself some love, patience, comfort, and joy. For more information about SAMHSA’s Holiday Toolkit, go to https://samhsa.gov/about/digital-toolkits/support-during-holidays